Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) is being considered as a potential replacement for microcrystalline cellulose as a food additive and a source of dietary fiber due to its unique properties. However, studies on the risks of consuming BNC in food are limited, and it is not yet approved for use in food in the US, EU, and Russia.
Aim: This study aims to perform a toxicological and hygienic assessment of the safety of BNC in a subacute 8-week administration in rats.
Methods: BNC was administered to male Wistar rats in doses of 0, 1.0, 10.0, and 100 mg/kg body weight for 8 weeks. Various parameters such as anxiety levels, cognitive function, organ masses, blood serum and liver biochemistry, oxidative stress markers, vitamin levels, antioxidant gene expression, and liver and kidney histology were evaluated.
Results: Low and medium doses of BNC increased anxiety levels and liver glutathione, while high doses led to elevated LDL cholesterol, creatinine, and uric acid levels. Liver tissue showed signs of degeneration at high doses. BNC did not significantly affect vitamin levels.
Conclusion: The adverse effects of BNC are either not dose-dependent or fall within normal physiological ranges. Any effects on rats are likely due to micronutrient deficiencies or impacts on intestinal microbiota.
Keywords: bacterial cellulose; behavioral reactions; intestinal microbiome; liver; nanofibers; rats; toxicity.